Electrochromic two way display for two in one laptop/tablet form factors

ABSTRACT

In one general aspect, a computing device can include a base, and a lid coupled to the base, the lid housing a display device that includes a first electrochromic material, a second electrochromic material, and an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. The OLED display can be located between the first electrochromic material and the second electrochromic material.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C.§120 to U.S. application Ser. No. 14/217,980, filed on Mar. 18, 2014,and entitled “ELECTROCHROMIC TWO WAY DISPLAY FOR TWO IN ONELAPTOP/TABLET FORM FACTORS”, the contents of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This description generally relates to computing devices. Thedescription, in particular, relates to display devices used in computingdevices.

BACKGROUND

Computing devices or systems can vary in shape and size, and can includelaptop computers, netbook computers, and tablet computers. The computingdevices can include a display device (e.g., an integrated monitor ortouchscreen) among other elements, such as audio systems, wirelessnetworking hardware, and user interface devices, such as keyboards andpointing devices. In some implementations, the display device of acomputing device can be a touchscreen display that can also function asan input device.

A user may be able to use a computing device in multiple modes ofoperation. For example, the computing device can include a lid thathouses the display device and a base that can include one or more inputdevices, such as a keyboard, a pointing stick, mouse buttons, atouchpad, and/or a trackpad. The lid can be attached to the base suchthat the lid can be moved and/or rotated with respect to the base sothat the computing device can be placed into multiple positions. Forexample, in a closed position, the front of the lid of the computingdevice (the front of the touchscreen display) can face, and/or be incontact with, the top of the base of the computing device. In thisposition, the computing device can be used in a tablet mode if a usercan interact with the side of the touchscreen display (the rear of thetouchscreen display) not facing the base of the computing device. Insome implementations, however, the lid that houses the display devicemay be constructed of an opaque material which could prevent a user frominteracting with the computing device in a tablet mode when thecomputing device is placed in a closed position, even if the side of thetouchscreen display (the rear of the touchscreen display) not facing thebase of the computing device permitted such interactions.

In an open position, for example, a user of the computing device canview and interact with both the front of the touchscreen display and theinput devices included in the base. An open position for the computingdevice can be where the lid of the computing device is placed out ofcontact with and in a stationary position with respect to the base ofthe computing device. For example, the lid can be placed atapproximately a 130 degree angle with respect to the base. This exampleopen position can be considered a laptop mode of operation for thecomputing device.

In some implementations, the lid can be rotated so that the back of thelid contacts/faces the bottom of the base of the computing device (e.g.,a 360 degree rotation of the lid from the closed position). In thisposition, the computing device can also be used in a tablet mode as auser can interact with the front of the touchscreen display. In orderfor the lid to rotate 360 degrees with respect to the base of thecomputing device, however, one or more hinges used to couple the lid ofthe computing device to the base of the computing device need to beimplemented accordingly. As computing devices become lighter, smaller,and thinner, it may be difficult to implement the one or more hinges toallow 360 degree rotation of the lid with respect to the base, whilemaintaining both the decreased size of the computing device and theability of a user to operate the computing device in multiple modes(e.g., a tablet mode, a laptop mode).

Thus, a need exists for systems, methods, and apparatus to address theshortfalls of present technology and to provide other new and innovativefeatures.

SUMMARY

In one general aspect, a computing device can include a base, and a lidcoupled to the base. The lid can house a display device including afirst electrochromic material, a second electrochromic material, and anorganic light emitting diode (OLED) display. The OLED display can belocated between the first electrochromic material and the secondelectrochromic material.

Example implementations may include one or more of the followingfeatures. For instance, the computing device can further include a firstglass panel including a first side and a second side. The firstelectrochromic material can be applied to the second side of the firstglass panel. The computing device can further include a second glasspanel including a first side and a second side. The secondelectrochromic material can be applied to the first side of the secondglass panel. The OLED display can be included in a third glass panel,the OLED display being formed on a side of the third glass panel. Thedisplay device can further include a first touch sensitive panel. Thefirst touch sensitive panel can be located between the firstelectrochromic material and the OLED display. The first touch sensitivepanel can be located between the second electrochromic material and theOLED display. The display device can further include a second touchsensitive panel. The second touch sensitive panel can be located betweenthe first electrochromic material and the OLED display. The computingdevice can further include a display controller coupled to each of thefirst electrochromic material, the second electrochromic material, andthe OLED, the display controller being configured to apply controlsignals to the first electrochromic material, the second electrochromicmaterial, and the OLED display.

In another general aspect, a method of operating a computing device caninclude receiving, by the computing device, one or more inputindicators, identifying, based on the received one or more inputindicators, an operating mode of the computing device, and based onidentifying the operating mode of the computing device, setting a firstvoltage to a first value, the first voltage being applied to a firstelectrochromic material included in a first part of a display deviceincluded in a lid portion of the computing device, and setting a secondvoltage to a second value, the second voltage applied to a secondelectrochromic material included in a second part of a display deviceincluded in the lid portion of the computing device.

Example implementations may include one or more of the followingfeatures. For instance, the operating mode of the computing device canbe a laptop mode. Setting the first voltage to the first value can causethe first electrochromic material to become transparent. Setting thefirst voltage to the first value can include removing the first voltagefrom the first electrochromic material. Setting the second voltage tothe second value can cause the second electrochromic material to becomeopaque. Setting the second voltage to the second value can includeapplying the second voltage to the second electrochromic material. Theoperating mode of the computing device can be a tablet mode. Setting thefirst voltage to the first value can cause the first electrochromicmaterial to become opaque. Setting the first voltage to the first valuecan include applying the first voltage to the first electrochromicmaterial. Setting the second voltage to the second value can cause thesecond electrochromic material to become transparent. Setting the secondvoltage to the second value can include removing the second voltage fromthe second electrochromic material. The first voltage can be applied tothe first electrochromic material by a display controller included inthe computing device. The second voltage can be applied to the secondelectrochromic material by the display controller.

In yet another general aspect, a display device can include a firstglass panel part including a first side and a second side, a secondglass panel part including a first side and a second side, a third glasspanel part including an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, afirst side and a second side, the OLED display being formed on the firstside, a first touch sensitive panel including a first side and a secondside, and a second touch sensitive panel including a first side and asecond side. The first electrochromic material can be applied to thesecond side of the first glass panel part. A second electrochromicmaterial can be applied to the first side of the second glass panelpart. The third glass panel part can be located between the first touchsensitive panel and the second touch sensitive panel, the first side ofthe third glass panel part being located adjacent to the second side ofthe first touch sensitive panel, and the second side of the third glasspanel part being located adjacent to the first side of the second touchsensitive panel. The second side of the first glass panel part can belocated adjacent to the first side of the first touch sensitive panel.The first side of the second glass panel part can be located adjacent tothe second side of the second touch sensitive panel.

The details of one or more implementations are set forth in theaccompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will beapparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams that illustrate an example computing devicein a laptop mode of operation.

FIGS. 1C and 1D are diagrams that illustrate an example computing devicein a tablet mode of operation.

FIGS. 1E and 1F are diagrams that illustrate an example computing devicein an alternate tablet mode of operation.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example two-way display deviceincluded in the computing devices described herein.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating example modules included in acomputing device.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates a method of operating a computingdevice that includes the herein described display device.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein is a two-way display device that can be incorporatedinto a computing device. A user of the computing device can view contentrendered by the two-way display device on either side (and in some casessimultaneously on both sides) of the display device. When viewed from afirst side (the content-rendering side), a second side of the two-waydisplay can become opaque, and, when viewed from the second side (thecontent-rendering side), the first side of the two-way display devicecan become opaque. The opaque side of the computing device can provide auniform background behind the content-rendering side of the two-waydisplay device. In some implementations, if the non-content renderingside of the two-way display device is transparent, a user viewingcontent from the content-rendering side of the two-way display devicewould be able to effectively “see through” the display, and viewwhatever may be behind the display (e.g., a keyboard) at the time of theviewing.

For example, as will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.2A and 2B, a lid of a computing device can house a two-way displaydevice. When the computing device is in a closed position (e.g., thefront of the lid of the computing device faces/contacts the top of thebase of the computing device), a first side of the two-way displaydevice faces/contacts the top of the base of the computing device. Inmany cases, the top of the base of the computing device can include oneor more input devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing stick, mousebuttons, a touchpad, and/or a trackpad. The second side of the two-waydisplay device can render content for viewing by a user of the computingdevice, while the first side of the two-way display device becomesopaque. In this configuration, the computing device can be considered ina tablet mode of operation. The opaque first side of the two-way displaydevice blocks/conceals any viewing of the input devices included in thebase of the computing device as the user views/interacts with thecontent displayed on the content-rendering second side of the two-waydisplay device.

In another example, as will be described in more detail with referenceto FIGS. 1A and 1B, a lid of a computing device can house a two-waydisplay device. When the computing device is in an open position shown(e.g., the lid of the computing device is at a 130-degree angle withrespect to a base of the computing device), a first side of the two-waydisplay device can render content for viewing by a user of the computingdevice, while the user interacts with one or more input devices includedin the base of the computing device. In addition, the second side of thetwo-way display device is opaque. In this configuration, the computingdevice can be considered to be in a laptop mode of operation. The opaquesecond side of the two-way display device provides privacy and hideswhat is behind the computing device from being seen by the user of thecomputing device as they view the content rendered on the first side ofthe two-way display device.

In some implementations, the two-way display device can include twodisplays placed against one another (e.g., back-to-back liquid crystaldisplay (LCD) modules where each LCD module includes backlighting). Inthese implementations, one display may display content while the otherdisplay remains effectively in an “off” state. In other cases, bothdisplays may be placed on an “off” state. In other cases, both displaysmay display the same or similar content (e.g., a second display candisplay the mirror image of the content being displayed on the firstdisplay). A computing device that includes a two-way display device withtwo displays can be large, heavy and cumbersome. In someimplementations, natural lighting may be used in place of backlightingfor an LCD. However, when the computing device is placed in a tabletmode of operation (e.g., the front of the lid of the computing devicefaces/contacts the top of the base of the computing device), little ifany natural lighting is available to effectively backlight the LCD.

In some implementations, the two-way display device can include a singledisplay that can be viewed from both sides (e.g., an organic lightemitting diode (OLED) display (OLED)). An OLED display includes OLEDsconfigured in a particular pattern (e.g., an x-y grid) that emit lightwhen a voltage is applied to the diode. The organic layers for the OLEDscan be patterned and deposited on a substrate that includes a backplane.The backplane can include switching and driving circuitry for the OLEDs.The substrate can be encapsulated, forming an OLED display. In someimplementations, the substrate can include a rigid, non-bendablematerial such as a rigid glass panel or a rigid plastic panel. In someimplementations, the substrate can include a bendable material that caninclude, but is not limited to, plastic, metal, or flexible glass. OLEDdisplays, dependent on the substrate, can be viewed from both the frontand the back of the display. In some implementations, when a transparentsubstrate is used, the OLED display can be viewed from both sides. Inthese implementations, the OLED display may be referred to as atransparent OLED display. In other implementations, when an opaquesubstrate is used, the OLED display can be viewed from the side on whichthe OLEDs are deposited on the opaque substrate.

An electrochromic film/material (or some variant) can be included onboth sides of the two-way display device. A voltage can be applied tothe electrochromic material to change the state of the material from atransparent/see-through state to a translucent/opaque state. A voltageapplied to the electrochromic material causes a chemical reaction in theelectrochromic material that changes the properties of theelectrochromic material (e.g., the way the electrochromic materialreflects and absorbs light). In some implementations, the electrochromicmaterial can be included in a piece/pane of glass. In someimplementations, the electrochromic material can be included in a pieceof plastic. For example, the electrochromic material can be sandwichedbetween two panes of glass (or plastic) that includes additional layersof other materials. The layers can include, but are not limited to, afirst panel, a first conducting oxide layer, an electrochromic layer(e.g., tungsten oxide), an ion conductor/electrolyte layer, an ionstorage layer, a second conducting oxide layer, and a second panel. Thelayers may be presented in the order listed above, or, in someimplementations, the order of the layers may be different. A powersource is connected/coupled to the first conducting oxide layer and thesecond conducting oxide layer. A voltage applied to the conducting oxidelayers causes the ions in the ion storage layer to migrate through theion conducting layer to the electrochromic layer, making the glassopaque. Removing/not applying the voltage to the conducting oxide layerscauses the ions to migrate out of the electrochromic layer and back intothe ion storage layer, making the glass transparent.

In some implementations, the two-way display device can include one ormore glass (or plastic) panels that can incorporate suspended particle,or polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) technologies. For example, asuspended particle device (SPD) can include nano-scale particlessuspended in a liquid suspension encapsulated between two panes of glass(or plastic), where each pane is coated with a conductive material.Applying a voltage to the two panes via the conductive coating resultsin the nano-scale particles aligning themselves, allowing light to passthrough the two panes. Removing the voltage (not applying the voltage)results in the nano-scale particles free-floating in the liquidsuspension, blocking light from passing through the two panes.Similarly, for example, a PDLC device can include a liquid crystal layerwith a liquid crystal film on each side of the liquid crystal layer. ThePDLC device can be included between two panes of glass or plastic.Applying a voltage to the two panes via the liquid crystal films resultsin the liquid crystals aligning themselves, allowing light to passthrough the two panes. Removing the voltage (not applying the voltage)results in random orientation of the liquid crystals, blocking lightfrom passing through the two panes.

For example, when the computing device is in an open position, theelectrochromic material on a second side of the two-way display devicecan be placed into an opaque state, providing an opaque background tothe display while a user views/interacts with content rendered on afirst side of the display because the electrochromic material on thefirst side of the two-way display device is placed into a transparentstate. In another example, when the computing device is in an closedposition, the electrochromic material on a first side of the two-waydisplay device (the side of the two-way display device facing the baseof the computing device) can be placed into an opaque state, providingan opaque background to the display (e.g., blocking a view of inputdevices included in the base of the computing device). Meanwhile, a usercan view/interact with content rendered on a second side of the displaybecause electrochromic material on the second side of the two-waydisplay device is placed into a transparent state.

Using a single computing device in both a laptop mode of operation and atablet mode of operation (e.g., a two-in-one computing device) requiresplacement of a lid of the computing device in multiple static positions.In some implementations that do not include a two-way display device, atablet mode of operation of the computing device is achieved by rotatingthe lid of the computing device 360 degrees with respect to the base ofthe computing device. An example of this mode of operation will bedescribed in more detail with respect to FIGS. 3A-B. This mode ofoperation, however, involves a hinge that can rotate the lid of thecomputing device 360 degrees. In some cases, the size of the hinge canbe cumbersome and may contribute to an increase in the overall thicknessof the computing device. In addition, when a user interacts with thecomputing device as a tablet, the input devices included in the base ofthe computing device are exposed. Though they may be disabled by thecomputing device when the computing device is placed into the tabletmode of operation, they may hinder the user experience.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams that illustrate an example computing device102 in a laptop mode of operation. In the example shown in FIGS. 1A and1B, the computing device 102 includes a lid portion 104 and a baseportion 106. The base portion 106 includes an input area 110. The inputarea 110 includes a keyboard 112, a trackpad 114, a pointer button 116,and mouse buttons 118 a-d. For example, the computing device 102 can beplaced on a surface where a bottom 122 of the base portion 106 rests onthe surface while a user interacts with the computing device 102.

The lid portion 104 includes a two-way display device 108 (e.g., atwo-way touch-sensitive display device, a two-way touchscreen) that ispart of (housed within/mounted on) the lid portion 104 of the computingdevice 102. For example, the two-way display device 108 can include afirst side 120 a and a second side 120 b.

For example, the computing device 102 as shown in FIG. 1A can beconsidered in a laptop mode of operation. In a laptop operating mode, auser of the computing device 102 can interact with the keyboard 112, thetrackpad 114, the pointer button 116, and the mouse buttons 118 a-dincluded in the input area 110 while viewing/interacting with contentrendered on the first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108. FIG.1B shows the computing device 102 in the laptop mode of operation,viewing the two-way display device 108 from the second side 120 b (e.g.,a user is looking at the back of the lid portion 104).

FIGS. 1C and 1D are diagrams that illustrate the example computingdevice 102 in a tablet mode of operation. In the tablet mode ofoperation shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D, the computing device 102 is in aclosed position where the lid portion 104 faces and/or is in contactwith the base portion 106. In a side view of the computing device 102 ina closed position, as shown in FIG. 1D, the input area 110 of the baseportion 106 faces, and/or is in contact with, the first side 120 a ofthe two-way display device 108 included in the lid portion 104. A topview of the computing device 102 in the closed position is shown in FIG.1C. In the closed position, a user can view/interact with contentdisplayed on the second side 120 b of the computing device 102.

The computing device 102 can include a mode indication switch 124. Themode indication switch 124 can be a momentary push-button type switch. Auser of the computing device 102 can press the mode indication switch124 after closing the computing device 102 if the user intends tofurther use the computing device 102 in a tablet mode of operation.

In some implementations, when the computing device is in a laptop modeof operation, software running on the computing device 102 can displaycontent on the first side 120 a of the computing device 102. When thecomputing device 102 is in a tablet mode of operation, software runningon the computing device 102 can display a mirror-image of the samecontent on the second side 120 b of the computing device 102. The mirrorimage ensures that content is orientated correctly (e.g., text is notdisplayed backwards).

FIGS. 1E and 1F are diagrams that illustrate the example computingdevice 102 in an alternate tablet mode of operation. In the alternatetablet mode of operation shown in FIGS. 1E and 1F, the computing device102 is in a position where the lid portion 104 is rotated 360 degreeswith respect to the base portion 106. In the side view of the computingdevice 102 (shown in FIG. 1F), while in the alternate tablet mode ofoperation the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 facesand/or is in contact with the bottom 122 of the base portion 106,leaving the input area 110 exposed. A top view of the computing device102 in the alternate tablet mode of operation is shown in FIG. 1C. Inthe alternate tablet mode of operation, a user can view/interact withcontent displayed on the first side 120 a of the computing device 102.However, the alternate tablet mode of operation may be awkward as theinput area 110 is exposed, making the computing device 102 cumbersomewhen used in the alternate tablet mode of operation.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example two-way display deviceincluded in the computing devices described herein. For example,referring to FIGS. 1A-1F, the cross-sectional view shows the first side120 a and the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108. Theexample two-way display device 108 is formed of multiple layers. Themultiple layers include a display 202, a first touch panel 204, a secondtouch panel 206, a first glass panel 208, and a second glass panel 210.As such, the two-way display device 108 can be used as a touch-sensitivedisplay (touchscreen) from the first side 120 a and the second side 120b.

An electrochromic material is applied to a back surface 212 of the firstglass panel 208. An electrochromic material is applied to a frontsurface 214 of the second glass panel 210. The electrochromic materialis placed on the back surface of each glass panel so that the glasspanel can provide protection for the electrochromic material (e.g., auser of the computing device 102 may not contact the electrochromicmaterial, the electrochromic material is not exposed to any outsidecontact).

A display controller 216 provides control signals 218 a-e to each of themultiple layers of the two-way display device 108: the first glass panel208, the first touch panel 204, the display 202, the second touch panel206, and the second glass panel 210, respectively. Control signals 218 band 218 d can control the operation of the first touch panel 204 and thetouch panel 206, respectively. The control signals 218 b and 218 d cansend data to, and receive data from, the first touch panel 204 and thetouch panel 206, respectively. One or more control signals 218 c cancontrol the operation of the display 202. The control signals 218 c cansend data to and receive data from the display 202. For example, thecontrol signals 218 c can control the switching and driving circuitryfor the OLEDs included in the backplane of the OLED display.

In some implementations, the display 202 included in the two-way displaydevice 108 can be an OLED display formed on a surface of an opaque panel(e.g., an opaque glass panel). In these implementations, the display 202can be viewed from the side on which the OLED display is formed on thesurface of the opaque panel. In the example computing device 102, theOLED display can be formed on the display first surface 222 a in orderto use the computing device 102 in a laptop mode as shown with referenceto FIGS. 1A and 1B. In these implementations, the touch panel 206 andthe second glass panel 210 can be eliminated from the two-way displaydevice 108.

Due to the opaque nature of the panel on which the OLED display isformed, the display 202 cannot be viewed from the display second side220 b. When using the computing device 102 in a tablet mode ofoperation, therefore, a user can rotate the lid portion 104 of thecomputing device 102 approximately 360 degrees with respect to the baseportion 106 to use the computing device 102 in the alternate tablet modeas shown in FIGS. 1E and 1F.

In some implementations, the display 202 included in the two-way displaydevice 108 can be an OLED display formed on a surface of a transparentglass panel. In these implementations, the display 202 can be viewedfrom both sides (a display first side 220 a and a display second side220 b) because the glass panel is transparent. In some implementations,the OLED display can be formed on a display first surface 222 a. Inother implementations, the OLED display can be formed on a displaysecond surface 222 b. The glass panel can provide a non-flexible surfacefor placement of the OLEDs making integration of the OLEDs as thedisplay in a multilayer display device easier.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, in some implementations, when thecomputing device 102 is in a laptop mode of operation, the second side120 b of the two-way display device 108 can be opaque, while the firstside 120 a of the two-way display device 108 can be transparent. Thedisplay 202 can be an OLED display formed on a surface of a transparentglass panel. The display controller 216 can provide a signal 218 e(e.g., a voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the frontsurface 214 of the second glass panel 210. The signal 218 e causes theelectrochromic material to become opaque, blocking the view of thedisplay 202 from the second side 120 b of the two-way display device108. In addition, the display controller 216 can remove a signal 218 a(e.g., not apply a voltage) to the electrochromic material applied tothe back surface 212 of the first glass panel 208. Removing/not applyingthe signal 218 a causes the electrochromic material to becometransparent, allowing the viewing of the display 202 from the first side120 a of the two-way display device 108.

Referring to FIGS. 1E and 1F, in some implementations, when thecomputing device 102 is in an alternate tablet mode of operation, thetwo-way display device 108 can be placed in the same mode of operationas in the laptop mode of operation. The second side 120 b of the two-waydisplay device 108 can be opaque, while the first side 120 a of thetwo-way display device 108 can be transparent. A user can view/interactwith content displayed on the first side 120 a of the computing device102. The opaque electrochromic material on the second side 120 b of thetwo-way display device 108 can block the view of the bottom 122 of thebase portion 106 of the computing device 102.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D, in some implementations, when thecomputing device 102 is in a tablet mode of operation, the first side120 a of the two-way display device 108 can be opaque, while the secondside 120 b of the two-way display device can be transparent. The displaycontroller 216 can provide a signal 218 a (e.g., a voltage) to theelectrochromic material applied to the back surface 212 of the firstglass panel 208. The signal 218 a causes the electrochromic material tobecome opaque, blocking anything located behind the first side 120 a ofthe two-way display device 108 (e.g., the input area 110) from beingviewed from the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108. Inaddition, the display controller 216 can remove a signal 218 e (e.g.,not apply a voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the frontsurface 214 of the second glass panel 210. Removing/not applying thesignal 218 e causes the electrochromic material to become transparent,allowing the viewing of the display 202 from the second side 120 b ofthe two-way display device 108.

In some implementations, the display controller 216 can remove thesignal 218 a (e.g., not apply a voltage) to the electrochromic materialapplied to the back surface 212 of the first glass panel 208. Inaddition, the display controller 216 can remove the signal 218 e (e.g.,not apply a voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the frontsurface 214 of the second glass panel 210. For example, referring toFIGS. 1A and 1B, when in a laptop mode of operation, the display 202 canbe viewed from the first side 120 a and the second side 120 b of thetwo-way display device 108 at the same time. A user viewing content onthe first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108 can view amirror-image of the content on the second side 120 b of the two-waydisplay device 108. In some cases, this could be confusing to the user(e.g., text will be displayed in reverse order on the second side 120 bof the two-way display device 108). In other cases, for example whendisplaying an image or picture, mirroring the image may not cause anyuser confusion.

In some cases, in implementations where the electrochromic materialapplied to the back surface 212 of the second glass panel 210 istransparent and the electrochromic material applied to the front surface214 of the second glass panel 210 is transparent, the user, whileviewing the two-way display device 108 from the first side 120 a, may beable to view through the display 202, seeing items and objects in thefield of view of the user that may be present behind the two-way displaydevice 108.

In some implementations, the display 202 can include a first OLEDdisplay formed on the display first surface 222 a of a panel and asecond OLED display formed on the display second surface 222 b of apanel. The display controller 216 can separately control the contentdisplayed on the first OLED display and the second OLED display. In someimplementations, in two-way display devices that include a first OLEDdisplay and a second OLED display, the first glass panel 208 and theelectrochromic material applied to the back surface 212 of the firstglass panel 208 can be omitted from the multiple layers included in thetwo-way display device 108. In addition or in the alternative, thesecond glass panel 210 and the electrochromic material applied to thefront surface 214 of the second glass panel 210 can be omitted from themultiple layers included in the two-way display device 108. When usingtwo OLED displays for the display 202, the panel can be opaque as theOLED displays are each viewed from a single side (the OLED displays donot need to be transparent).

For example, referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, when in a laptop mode ofoperation, the display 202 can be viewed from the first side 120 a andthe second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 at the sametime. The first OLED display can display content on the first side 120 aof the two-way display device 108 and the second OLED display candisplay the same content, in the correct orientation, on the second side120 b of the two-way display device 108.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D, when the computing device 102 is in atablet mode of operation, the display controller 216 can provide asignal to the first OLED display that can disable the first OLED display(no content is displayed on the first OLED). The second OLED display candisplay content on the second side 120 b of the two-way display device108.

Referring to FIGS. 1E and 1F, when the computing device 102 is in analternate tablet mode of operation, the display controller 216 canprovide a signal to the second OLED display that can disable the secondOLED display (no content is displayed on the first OLED). The first OLEDdisplay can display content on the first side 120 a of the two-waydisplay device 108.

In some implementations, the glass panels 208, 210 and theelectrochromic material applied to the surfaces of each panel can beeliminated resulting in a two-way display device 108 that includes thedisplay 202 and the touch panels 204, 206. In these implementations, auser of the computing device 102 can view the two-way display device 108from the first side 120 a and the second side 120 b at the same time andcan have the same experiences as when using the computing device 102 inthe situation as described above where the electrochromic materialapplied to the front surface 214 of the second glass panel 210 istransparent and the electrochromic material applied to the back surface212 of the first glass panel 208 is transparent.

In some implementations, the second glass panel 210 and theelectrochromic material applied to the front surface 214 of the secondglass panel 210 can be omitted from the multiple layers included in thetwo-way display device 108. In these implementations, referring to FIGS.1A and 1B that show the computing device 102 in a laptop mode ofoperation, the first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108 can betransparent. The display controller 216 can remove a signal 218 a (e.g.,not apply a voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the backsurface 212 of the first glass panel 208. Removing/not applying thesignal 218 a causes the electrochromic material to become transparent. Auser of the computing device 102 can view the display 202 from the firstside 120 a of the two-way display device 108. The user, when viewing thedisplay 202 from the first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108,can see through the display 202 as there is no opaque backing on thedisplay 202. In addition, the user can view the mirror image of thecontent viewed from the first side 120 a of the two-way display device108 from the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D that show the computing device 102 in atablet mode of operation, in implementations where the second glasspanel 210 and the electrochromic material applied to the front surface214 of the second glass panel 210 are omitted from the multiple layersincluded in the two-way display device 108, the first side 120 a of thetwo-way display device 108 can be opaque. The display controller 216 canprovide a signal 218 a (e.g., apply a voltage) to the electrochromicmaterial applied to the back surface 212 of the first glass panel 208.Applying the signal 218 a causes the electrochromic material to becomeopaque. A user of the computing device 102, when interacting with thecomputing device 102 in a tablet mode, can view the display 202 from thesecond side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 while the computingdevice 102 is in a closed position. The user, when viewing the display202 from the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108, willnot be able to see through the display 202. The opaque electrochromicmaterial will effectively block the user's view of the input area 110,providing the user with a pleasant tablet mode experience.

Referring to FIGS. 1E and 1F, in implementations where the second glasspanel 210 and the electrochromic material applied to the front surface214 of the second glass panel 210 are omitted from the multiple layersincluded in the two-way display device 108, when the computing device102 is in an alternate tablet mode of operation, the two-way displaydevice 108 can be placed in the same mode of operation as in the laptopmode of operation. The first side 120 a of the two-way display device108 can be transparent. A user can view/interact with content displayedon the first side 120 a of the computing device 102. The user may alsobe able to view through the display 202, seeing the bottom 122 of thebase portion 106 of the computing device 102.

In some implementations, the first glass panel 208 and theelectrochromic material applied to the back surface 212 of the firstglass panel 208 can be omitted from the multiple layers included in thetwo-way display device 108. In these implementations, referring to FIGS.1A and 1B that show the computing device 102 in a laptop mode ofoperation, the first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108 can betransparent. The display controller 216 can provide a signal 218 e(e.g., apply a voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to thefront surface 214 of the second glass panel 210. Providing/applying thesignal 218 a causes the electrochromic material to become opaque. A userof the computing device 102 can view the display 202 from the first side120 a of the two-way display device 108. The user, when viewing thedisplay 202 from the first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108,cannot see through the display 202. Removing/not applying the signal 218e causes the electrochromic material to become transparent. A user ofthe computing device 102 can view the display 202 from the first side120 a of the two-way display device 108. In addition, the user can viewthe mirror image of the content viewed from the first side 120 a of thetwo-way display device 108 from the second side 120 b of the two-waydisplay device 108.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D that show the computing device 102 in atablet mode of operation, in implementations where the first glass panel208 and the electrochromic material applied to the back surface 212 ofthe first glass panel 208 are omitted from the multiple layers includedin the two-way display device 108, the first side 120 a of the two-waydisplay device 108 can be transparent and the second side 120 b of thetwo-way display device 108 can also be transparent. The displaycontroller 216 can remove a signal 218 e (e.g., not apply a voltage) tothe electrochromic material applied to the front surface 214 of thesecond glass panel 210. Removing/not applying the signal 218 e causesthe electrochromic material to become transparent. A user of thecomputing device 102, when interacting with the computing device 102 ina tablet mode, can view the display 202 from the second side 120 b ofthe two-way display device 108 while the computing device 102 is in aclosed position. The user, when viewing the display 202 from the secondside 120 b of the two-way display device 108, may also be able to seethrough the display 202 and view the input area 110.

Referring to FIGS. 1E and 1F, in implementations where the first glasspanel 208 and the electrochromic material applied to the back surface212 of the first glass panel 208 are omitted from the multiple layersincluded in the two-way display device 108, when the computing device102 is in an alternate tablet mode of operation, the two-way displaydevice 108 can be placed in the same mode of operation as in the laptopmode of operation. The first side 120 a of the two-way display device108 can be transparent, while the second side 120 b can be opaque. Auser can view/interact with content displayed on the first side 120 a ofthe computing device 102. The user will not be able to view through thedisplay 202, blocking a view of the bottom 122 of the base portion 106of the computing device 102.

In some implementations, the display 202 included in the two-way displaydevice 108 can be an OLED display formed on a display first surface 222a of a transparent glass panel. In these implementations, the display202 can be viewed from both sides (the display first side 220 a and thedisplay second side 220 b) because the glass panel is transparent. Inaddition, an electrochromic material can be applied to the displaysecond surface 222 b. The second glass panel 210 can be omitted from themultiple layers included in the two-way display device 108.

In these implementations, referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B that show thecomputing device 102 in a laptop mode of operation, the first side 120 aof the two-way display device 108 can be transparent. The displaycontroller 216 can remove a signal 218 a (e.g., not apply a voltage) tothe electrochromic material applied to the back surface 212 of the firstglass panel 208. Removing/not applying the signal 218 a causes theelectrochromic material to become transparent. The display controller216 can provide the signal 218 e (e.g., apply a voltage) to theelectrochromic material applied to the display second surface 222 b. Thesignal 218 e causes the electrochromic material to become opaque,blocking the view of the display 202 from the second side 120 b of thetwo-way display device 108. In the alternative, the display controller216 can a remove the signal 218 e (e.g., not apply a voltage) to theelectrochromic material applied to the display second surface 222 b. Thesignal 218 e causes the electrochromic material to become transparent,allowing the viewing of the display 202 from both the first side 120 aof the two-way display device 108 and the second side 120 b of thetwo-way display device 108.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D that show the computing device 102 in atablet mode of operation, in implementations where the display 202included in the two-way display device 108 is an OLED display formed ona display first surface 222 a of a transparent glass panel and anelectrochromic material is applied to the display second surface 222 b,the display controller 216 can remove the signal 218 e (e.g., not applya voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the display secondsurface 222 b. Removing/not applying the signal 218 e causes theelectrochromic material to become transparent. The first side 120 a ofthe two-way display device 108 can be opaque. The display controller 216can provide a signal 218 a (e.g., apply a voltage) to the electrochromicmaterial applied to the back surface 212 of the first glass panel 208.Applying the signal 218 a causes the electrochromic material to becomeopaque. A user of the computing device 102, when interacting with thecomputing device 102 in a tablet mode, can view the display 202 from thesecond side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 while the computingdevice 102 is in a closed position. The user will not be able tosee-through the display 202 as the opaque electrochromic materialapplied to the back surface 212 of the first glass panel 208 willeffectively block the user's view of the input area 110.

Referring to FIGS. 1E and 1F, in implementations where the display 202included in the two-way display device 108 is an OLED display formed ona display first surface 222 a of a transparent glass panel and anelectrochromic material is applied to the display second surface 222 b,when the computing device 102 is in an alternate tablet mode ofoperation, the two-way display device 108 can be placed in the same modeof operation as in the laptop mode of operation. The first side 120 a ofthe two-way display device 108 can be transparent, while the second side120 b can be opaque. A user can view/interact with content displayed onthe first side 120 a of the computing device 102. The user will not beable to view through the display 202, blocking a view of the bottom 122of the base portion 106 of the computing device 102.

In some implementations, the display 202 included in the two-way displaydevice 108 can be an OLED display formed on a display second surface 222b of a transparent glass panel. In these implementations, the display202 can be viewed from both sides (the display first side 220 a and thedisplay second side 220 b) because the glass panel is transparent. Inaddition, an electrochromic material can be applied to the display firstsurface 222 a. The first glass panel 208 can be omitted from themultiple layers included in the two-way display device 108.

In these implementations, referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B that show thecomputing device 102 in a laptop mode of operation, the first side 120 aof the two-way display device 108 can be transparent. The displaycontroller 216 can remove a signal 218 a (e.g., not apply a voltage) tothe electrochromic material applied to the display first surface 222 a.Removing/not applying the signal 218 a causes the electrochromicmaterial to become transparent. The display controller 216 can providethe signal 218 e (e.g., apply a voltage) to the electrochromic materialapplied to the front surface 214 of the second glass panel 210. Thesignal 218 e causes the electrochromic material to become opaque,blocking the view of the display 202 from the second side 120 b of thetwo-way display device 108. In the alternative, the display controller216 can a remove the signal 218 e (e.g., not apply a voltage) to theelectrochromic material applied to the front surface 214 of the secondglass panel 210. The signal 218 e causes the electrochromic material tobecome transparent, allowing the viewing of the display 202 from boththe first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108 and the secondside 120 b of the two-way display device 108.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D that show the computing device 102 in atablet mode of operation, in implementations where the display 202included in the two-way display device 108 is an OLED display formed ona display second surface 222 b of a transparent glass panel and anelectrochromic material is applied to the display first surface 222 a,the display controller 216 can remove the signal 218 e (e.g., not applya voltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the front surface214 of the second glass panel 210. Removing/not applying the signal 218e causes the electrochromic material to become transparent. The firstside 120 a of the two-way display device 108 can be opaque. The displaycontroller 216 can provide a signal 218 a (e.g., apply a voltage) to theelectrochromic material applied to the display first surface 222 a.Applying the signal 218 a causes the electrochromic material to becomeopaque. A user of the computing device 102, when interacting with thecomputing device 102 in a tablet mode, can view the display 202 from thesecond side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 while the computingdevice 102 is in a closed position. The user will not be able tosee-through the display 202 as the opaque electrochromic materialapplied to the back surface 212 of the first glass panel 208 willeffectively block the user's view of the input area 110.

Referring to FIGS. 1E and 1F, in implementations where the display 202included in the two-way display device 108 is an OLED display formed ona display second surface 222 b of a transparent glass panel and anelectrochromic material is applied to the display first surface 222 a,when the computing device 102 is in an alternate tablet mode ofoperation, the two-way display device 108 can be placed in the same modeof operation as in the laptop mode of operation. The first side 120 a ofthe two-way display device 108 can be transparent, while the second side120 b can be opaque. A user can view/interact with content displayed onthe first side 120 a of the computing device 102. The user will not beable to view through the display 202, blocking a view of the bottom 122of the base portion 106 of the computing device 102.

In some implementations, an electrochromic material may be appliedover/on top of the surface of the OLED display. In theseimplementations, for example, a glass panel (e.g., the first glass panel208 and/or the second glass panel 210) can be omitted from the multiplelayers included in the two-way display device 108. In implementationswhere the OLED display is formed on a display first surface 222 a of atransparent glass panel, as described above, the first glass panel 208can be omitted. In these implementations, an electrochromic material canbe applied to the display second surface 222 b, further omitting thesecond glass panel 210. Alternatively, an electrochromic material can beapplied to the front surface 214 of the second glass panel 210. Inimplementations where the OLED display is placed/overlayed/deposited ona display second surface 222 b of a transparent glass panel, asdescribed above, the second glass panel 210 can be omitted. In theseimplementations, an electrochromic material can be applied to thedisplay first surface 222 a, further omitting the first glass panel 208.Alternatively, an electrochromic material can be applied to the backsurface 212 of the first glass panel 208.

In some cases, the computing device 102 can be placed in a closedposition and not further used in a tablet mode. For example, a user ofthe computing device 102 may be finished using the device for a periodof time and simply closes the lid portion 104. The computing device 102,sensing no further interactions by the user (e.g., no userinputs/contact with a touch-sensitive surface of the two-way displaydevice 108), can determine that the user is no longer interacting withthe computing device 102. In these cases, dependent on theimplementation of the computing device 102, the first side 120 a of thetwo-way display device 108, and/or the second side 120 b of the two-waydisplay device 108 may be opaque, blocking the view of the input area110 from the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108.Alternatively, dependent on the implementation of the computing device102, the first side 120 a of the two-way display device 108, and thesecond side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 may be transparent.As such, the input area 110 can be viewed from the second side 120 b ofthe two-way display device 108.

The determination as to if the first side 120 a or the second side 120b, or the first side 120 a and the second side 120 b are to be opaque ortransparent can be based on a power consumption needed by theelectrochromic material included in the two-way display device 108. Forexample, in order to conserve power in a low power operating mode of thecomputing device 102 when closed, no voltage may be applied to theelectrochromic material included in the two-way display device 108,causing the first side 120 a and the second side 120 b to betransparent, allowing the input area 110 to be viewed from the secondside 120 b of the two-way display device 108.

In any of the implementations described above, the two-way displaydevice 108 may include a single touch panel. For example, the firsttouch panel 204 may be omitted from the multiple layers included in thetwo-way display device 108. A user of the two-way display device 108 canuse the display 202 as a touchscreen when operating the computing device102 in a tablet mode as shown with reference to FIGS. 1C and 1D. In someimplementations, the user may use the display 202 as a touchscreen whenoperating the computing device 102 in a laptop mode as shown withreference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, as well as when operating the computingdevice 102 in a tablet mode as shown with reference to FIGS. 1C and 1D.In other implementations, the display 202 may not operate as atouchscreen when the computing device 102 is in a laptop mode as shownwith reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, but may operate as a touchscreen whenthe computing device 102 in a tablet mode as shown with reference toFIGS. 1C and 1D. The ability of the display 202 to operate as atouchscreen in a laptop mode can be dependent on the width of the layersincluded in the two-way display device 108 and/or the type of touchpanel included in the two-way display device.

In any of the implementations described above, the two-way displaydevice 108 may include a single touch panel where the second touch panel206 may be omitted from the multiple layers included in the two-waydisplay device 108. In these implementations, the two-way display device108 can be implemented such that a user of the two-way display device108 can use the display 202 as a touchscreen when operating thecomputing device 102 in a laptop mode as shown with reference to FIGS.1A and 1B, as well as when operating the computing device 102 in atablet mode as shown with reference to FIGS. 1C and 1D.

One or more sensors can be included on a surface of a touch panel. Thesensors can detect touch actions by a user of a computing device. Thecomputing device can interpret the touch actions as commands and inputsto the computing device. In some implementations, a grid of electrodescan be deposited on a first surface 224 a of the first touch panel 204,forming a touch-sensitive surface for the first touch panel 204.Alternatively, in other implementations, a grid of electrodes can bedeposited on a second surface 224 b of the first touch panel 204,forming a touch-sensitive surface for the first touch panel 204. In someimplementations, a grid of electrodes can be deposited on a firstsurface 226 a of the second touch panel 206, forming a touch-sensitivesurface for the second touch panel 206. Alternatively, in otherimplementations, a grid of electrodes can be deposited on a secondsurface 226 b of the second touch panel 206, forming a touch-sensitivesurface for the second touch panel 206.

In some implementations, an electrochromic material can be applied to asurface of a touch panel (e.g., the surface that is nottouch-sensitive), eliminating the inclusion of a separate glass panelfrom the multiple layers included in a two-way display device 108 (e.g.,the two-way display device 108). In implementations where thetouch-sensitive surface is included on the first surface 224 a of thefirst touch panel 204, an electrochromic material can be applied to thesecond surface 224 b of the first touch panel 204. In implementationswhere the touch-sensitive surface is included on the second surface 224b of the first touch panel 204, an electrochromic material can beapplied to the first surface 224 a of the first touch panel 204. Inthese implementations, the first glass panel 208 can be omitted from themultiple layers included in the two-way display device 108.

In implementations where the touch-sensitive surface is included on thefirst surface 226 a of the second touch panel 206, an electrochromicmaterial can be applied to the second surface 224 b of the second touchpanel 206. In implementations where the touch-sensitive surface isincluded on the second surface 226 b of the second touch panel 206, anelectrochromic material can be applied to the first surface 226 a of thesecond touch panel 206. In these implementations, the second glass panel210 can be omitted from the multiple layers included in the two-waydisplay device 108.

In other implementations, where the display 202 includes a single OLEDdisplay, the touch-sensitive surface of a touch panel can be formed on asurface of the display 202. In some implementations, the OLED displaycan be formed on the display first surface 222 a and the touch-sensitivesurface can be formed on the display second surface 222 b. In theseimplementations, the second touch panel 206 can be omitted from themultiple layers included in the two-way display device 108. In addition,in cases where a single touch panel can be used by the computing device102, the first touch panel 204 can be omitted from the multiple layersincluded in the two-way display device 108. In some implementations, theOLED display can be formed on the display second surface 222 b and thetouch-sensitive surface can be formed on the display first surface 222a. In these implementations, the first touch panel 204 can be omittedfrom the multiple layers included in the two-way display device 108. Inaddition, in cases where a single touch panel can be used by thecomputing device 102, the second touch panel 206 can be omitted from themultiple layers included in the two-way display device 108.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating example modules included in acomputing device 300. For example, the computing device 300 can be thecomputing device 102, as shown in FIGS. 1A-F. In the example of FIG. 4,the computing device 300 includes a processor 320, memory 330, an inputcontroller 340 and a display controller 316. The display controller 316is operatively coupled/connected to a display device 308. For example,the display controller 316 can be the display controller as shown inFIG. 2 and the display device 308 can be the two-way display device 108as shown in FIGS. 1A-F and FIG. 2.

The input controller 340 can receive input data from one or more inputdevices 350. The input devices 350 can be one or more input devices auser of the computing device 300 may interact with, for example, toprovide input to an application running on the computing device 300. Forexample, the processor 320 may execute an application that may be storedin the memory 330. The application can display a user interface on thedisplay device 308 included in the computing device 300.

The user can interact with one or more of the input devices 350 (e.g.,included in the input area 110) in order to interact with and/or provideinput to the application. The input devices 350 can include, but are notlimited to, a keyboard (e.g., keyboard 112), a trackpad (e.g., trackpad114), a pointing device (e.g., pointer button 116), and mouse buttons(e.g., mouse buttons 118 a-d). In some implementations, the displaydevice 308 can be a two-way display device (e.g., two-way display device108) and can be implemented according to any of the herein describedimplementations. In implementations where the display device 308 isimplemented as a touch-sensitive two-way display device (e.g., thetwo-way display device 108), the display device 308 can include atouch-sensitive first side (e.g. the first side 120 a) and a touchsensitive second side (e.g., the second side 120 b). A user can interactwith the first side of the display device 308 while using the computingdevice 300 in a laptop mode of operation.

As described with reference to FIG. 2, the display controller 316 canprovide control signals to the display device 308 to cause anelectrochromic material in the first side of the display device 308 tobecome transparent and to cause an electrochromic material in the secondside of the display device 308 to become opaque.

The display controller 216 can provide a signal 218 e (e.g., a voltage)to the electrochromic material applied to the front surface 214 of thesecond glass panel 210. The signal 218 e causes the electrochromicmaterial to become opaque, blocking the view of the display 202 from thesecond side 120 b of the two-way display device 108. In addition, thedisplay controller 216 can remove a signal 218 a (e.g., not apply avoltage) to the electrochromic material applied to the back surface 212of the first glass panel 208. Removing/not applying the signal 218 acauses the electrochromic material to become transparent, allowing theviewing of the display 202 from the first side 120 a of the two-waydisplay device 108.

One or more lid position sensors/indicators 360 can provide thecomputing device 300 with an indication of the position of a lid of thecomputing device (e.g., the lid portion 104) with respect to the base ofthe computing device (e.g., the base portion 106). The lid positionsensors/indicators 360 can include but are not limited to inductive,capacitive, mechanical, magneto-resistive, Hall effect, and opticalsensors.

The lid position sensors/indicators 360 can include an accelerometerplaced/located in the lid portion 104 of the computing device 102 and anaccelerometer placed/located in the base portion 106 of the computingdevice 102 that can be used to determine an angle of the lid portion 104with respect to the base portion 106 of the computing device 102. Thedetermined angle can be indicative of the operating mode of thecomputing device 102.

In some implementations, the lid position sensors/indicators 360 caninclude a sensor/indicator that provides the computing device 102 withan indication that the computing device 102 is to be used in a tabletmode of operation. As described, a user of the computing device 102 canuse the computing device 102 in a tablet mode when the computing device102 is in a closed position, as shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D. The computingdevice 102 can receive an indication that the user intends to use thecomputing device 102 as a tablet and that the user did not just closethe computing device 102 with no further intention of continuing to usethe computing device 102. In some implementations, as described withreference to FIGS. 1C and 1D, a user of the computing device 102 canpress the mode indication switch 124 any time after closing thecomputing device 102 if the user intends to use the computing device 102in a tablet mode of operation.

In some implementations, when the computing device 102 is in the closedposition, the second side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 candisplay an input icon that a user of the computing device 102 caninteract with, placing the computing device 102 into a tablet mode ofoperation. For example, the second side 120 b of the two-way displaydevice 108 can display an icon (e.g., a button, a slide switch) thatwhen touched/activated by the user when interacting with the second side120 b of the two-way display device 108 puts the computing device 102into a tablet mode of operation. If the user does not interact with thesecond side 120 b of the two-way display device 108 (for example theuser does not touch the icon within a specific time frame (e.g., 30seconds)), the computing device 102 can transition to a low power orpower-down mode of operation while continuing to display the icon. Laterinteraction of the user with the second side 120 b of the two-waydisplay device 108 can wake-up the computing device 102 and place itinto a tablet mode of operation.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates a method 400 of operating acomputing device that includes the herein described display device.According to this example, the method 700 includes receiving, by acomputing device, one or more input indicators (402). The method 700also includes identifying, based on the received one or more inputindicators, an operating mode of the computing device (404). Forexample, the input indicator can indicate that the computing device isin one of a laptop or tablet mode of operation. Based on identifying theoperating mode of the computing device, the method 700 further includessetting a first voltage to a first value, the first voltage beingapplied to a first electrochromic material included in a first part of adisplay device included in a lid portion of the computing device (406).Also based on identifying the operating mode of the computing device,the method 700 further includes setting a second voltage to a secondvalue, the second voltage applied to a second electrochromic materialincluded in a second part of a display device included in the lidportion of the computing device (408).

Implementations of the various techniques described herein may beimplemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware,firmware, software, or in combinations of them. Implementations mayimplemented as a computer program product, i.e., a computer programtangibly embodied in an information carrier, e.g., in a machine-readablestorage device (computer-readable medium, a non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium, a tangible computer-readable storagemedium) or in a propagated signal, for processing by, or to control theoperation of, data processing apparatus, e.g., a programmable processor,a computer, or multiple computers. A computer program, such as thecomputer program(s) described above, can be written in any form ofprogramming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, andcan be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as amodule, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in acomputing environment. A computer program can be deployed to beprocessed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site ordistributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communicationnetwork.

Method steps may be performed by one or more programmable processorsexecuting a computer program to perform functions by operating on inputdata and generating output. Method steps also may be performed by, andan apparatus may be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry,e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC(application-specific integrated circuit).

Processors suitable for the processing of a computer program include, byway of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, andany one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, aprocessor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory ora random access memory or both. Elements of a computer may include atleast one processor for executing instructions and one or more memorydevices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer alsomay include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transferdata to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data,e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. Informationcarriers suitable for embodying computer program instructions and datainclude all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of examplesemiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memorydevices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks;magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor andthe memory may be supplemented by, or incorporated in special purposelogic circuitry.

To provide for interaction with a user, implementations may beimplemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a cathode raytube (CRT) or liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor, for displayinginformation to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., amouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to thecomputer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interactionwith a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can beany form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback,or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in anyform, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

Implementations may be implemented in a computing system that includes aback-end component, e.g., as a data server, or that includes amiddleware component, e.g., an application server, or that includes afront-end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical userinterface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with animplementation, or any combination of such back-end, middleware, orfront-end components. Components may be interconnected by any form ormedium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network.Examples of communication networks include a local area network (LAN)and a wide area network (WAN), e.g., the Internet.

While certain features of the described implementations have beenillustrated as described herein, many modifications, substitutions,changes and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. Itis, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended tocover all such modifications and changes as fall within the scope of theimplementations. It should be understood that they have been presentedby way of example only, not limitation, and various changes in form anddetails may be made. Any portion of the apparatus and/or methodsdescribed herein may be combined in any combination, except mutuallyexclusive combinations. The implementations described herein can includevarious combinations and/or sub-combinations of the functions,components and/or features of the different implementations described.

A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it willbe understood that various modifications may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the herein described implementations.

In addition, the logic flows depicted in the figures do not require theparticular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirableresults. In addition, other steps may be provided, or steps may beeliminated, from the described flows, and other components may be addedto, or removed from, the described systems. Accordingly, otherembodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of operating a computing deviceincluding a base portion and a lid portion, the method comprising:determining, based on receiving one or more inputs indicating a positionof the lid portion with respect to the base portion, that the computingdevice is in a laptop mode of operation or a tablet mode of operation;and based on determining that the computing device is in a laptop modeof operation, not applying a first voltage to a first electrochromicmaterial included in a first side of a display device included in thelid portion of the computing device, the first electrochromic materialchanging from an opaque state to a transparent state in response to notapplying the first voltage; applying a second voltage to a secondelectrochromic material included in a second side of the display deviceincluded in the lid portion of the computing device, the secondelectrochromic material changing from a transparent state to an opaquestate in response to applying the second voltage; and displaying, on anorganic light emitting diode (OLED) display included in the displaydevice and located between the first side of the display device and thesecond side of the display device, content visible from the first sideof the display device and not visible from the second side of thedisplay device.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising, based ondetermining that the computing device is in a tablet mode of operation,applying the first voltage to the first electrochromic material, thefirst electrochromic material changing from a transparent state to anopaque state in response to the applying of the first voltage; notapplying the second voltage to the second electrochromic material, thesecond electrochromic material changing from an opaque state to atransparent state in response to not applying the second voltage; anddisplaying, on the OLED, content visible from the second side of thedisplay device and not visible from the first side of the displaydevice.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first voltage is notapplied to the first electrochromic material by a display controllerincluded in the computing device, and wherein the second voltage isapplied to the second electrochromic material by the display controller.4. A non-transitory, machine-readable medium having instructions storedthereon, the instructions, when executed by a processor, cause acomputing device to: determine that the computing device is in a closedposition; and operate the computing device in a tablet mode of operationbased on determining that the computing device is in a closed positionand based on receiving, by the computing device, an input confirming thetablet mode of operation, the operating of the computing device in thetablet mode of operation including: applying a first voltage to a firstelectrochromic material included in a first side of a display deviceincluded in a lid portion of the computing device; not applying a secondvoltage to a second electrochromic material included in a second side ofa display device included in the lid portion of the computing device;and displaying, on an organic light emitting diode (OLED) displayincluded in the display device and located between the first side of thedisplay device and the second side of the display device, contentvisible from the second side of the display device and not visible fromthe first side of the display device.
 5. The medium of claim 4, whereinapplying the first voltage to the first electrochromic material causesthe first electrochromic material to become opaque.
 6. The medium ofclaim 5, wherein not applying the second voltage to the secondelectrochromic material causes the second electrochromic material tobecome transparent.
 7. The medium of claim 4, wherein the first voltageis applied to the first electrochromic material by a display controllerincluded in the computing device, and wherein the second voltage is notapplied to the second electrochromic material by the display controller.8. A method of operating a computing device including a two-way displaydevice having a first side and a second side, the method comprising:receiving, by the computing device, one or more input indicators;identifying, based on the received one or more input indicators, anoperating mode of the computing device; and based on identifying theoperating mode of the computing device: displaying, on a first organiclight emitting diode (OLED) display deposited on a first surface of apanel included in the display device, first content visible from thefirst side of the display device; and displaying, on a second organiclight emitting diode (OLED) display deposited on a second surface of thepanel included in the display device, second content visible from thesecond side of the display device.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein thepanel is opaque.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the first surface ofthe panel is opposite the second surface of the panel.
 11. The method ofclaim 10, wherein the first side of the display device is opposite thesecond side of the display device.
 12. The method of claim 11, whereinthe second content is a mirror image of the first content.
 13. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the second content is different from thefirst content.
 14. The method of claim 8, wherein the operating mode ofthe computing device is a laptop mode.
 15. The method of claim 8,wherein the computing device includes a lid portion including thetwo-way display device and a base portion including an input area, andwherein the operating mode of the computing device is a tablet modewherein the computing device is in a closed position with the input areabeing in contact with the first side of the display device, and themethod further comprises, based on identifying the tablet mode ofoperation, not displaying, on the first OLED display, the first content.16. The medium of claim 4, wherein receiving, by the computing device,an input confirming the tablet mode of operation includes receivinginput for a pressing of a switch by a user of the computing device beingsubsequent to determining that the computing device is in a closedposition.
 17. The medium of claim 4, wherein the second side of thedisplay device includes a touch panel, and wherein receiving, by thecomputing device, an input confirming the tablet mode of operationincludes receiving input of an interaction of a user of the computingdevice with an icon displayed on the display device and viewable fromthe second side of the display device, the receiving of the input of theinteraction being subsequent to determining that the computing device isin a closed position.